The Eagles' Don Henley has sued a Republican politician who he claims used two of his solo songs in campaign videos without permission.

In legal documents filed in California state, Henley said Charles DeVore had adapted the lyrics of one song in order to smear his Democratic rival, Barbara Boxer.

DeVore changed the song 'All She Wants To Do Is Dance' to 'All She Wants To Do Is Tax', legal documents claim.

The videos, posted on YouTube, also feature Henley's solo hit 'The Boys Of Summer'.

"The infringers have vowed to continue exploiting this and other copyrighted works, as it suits them, to further their own ambitions and agenda," a spokesman for the singer told the BBC.

DeVore has vowed to counter Henley's claims on the grounds of political free speech.

He said it was "time to up the ante on Mr Henley's liberal goon tactics. By popular request, I have penned the words to our new parody song.”

The legal action follows widespread anger from musicians last year over Republican politicians continued use of material for campaign purposes.

A number of politicans used songs as part of the 2008 US election.

(by Jason Gregory)